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What is considered heavy drinking? Many are unclear on the answer to this question. However, at some point in your life you have probably been concerned about the amount of alcohol that you or a loved one was consuming. How can you tell when someone needs to address the amount of alcohol they have been consuming? Are there signs that help us determine if we need to cut back or quit altogether?
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism says that heavy alcohol use is defined as more than three drinks a day or more than seven drinks a week for women, and more than four drinks a day or more than fourteen drinks a week for men. It’s also important to consider binge drinking, which is four or more drinks in less than two hours for women and five or more drinks in less than two hours for men.
It is possible that a person is a heavy drinker, but does not have alcohol use disorder, however, someone who has alcohol use disorder will likely drink heavily and show binge drinking behaviors. The following are signs to look out for that may indicate that you or someone you know is developing alcohol use disorder:
- Drinking more than you intended and/or spending more time drinking than you intended
- Telling yourself you are going to drink less and then failing to do so
- Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from drinking
- Having cravings or a strong urge to drink alcohol
- Engaging in reckless behavior when you drink, which might include having unprotected sex, driving while intoxicated, going swimming, or wandering alone in a dangerous neighborhood
- Discovering that drinking or recovering from drinking often interferes with your ability to fulfill duties at home, school, or work
- Continuing to drink even after it causes issues with friends, family, or other loved ones
- Quitting or cutting back on activities you used to enjoy so that you can spend more time drinking
- Continuing to drink even after it makes you feel depressed or anxious or causes other health problems
- Having to drink more than you used to in order to get the desired effect
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking, like nausea, sweating, restlessness, trouble sleeping, anxiety, irritability, or depression
Similarly, there are differences between someone who drinks casually and those who are developing alcohol use disorder. Have you noticed any of the following signs in yourself or in a loved one?
- Only drinks to get drunk
- Hides or tries to hide the extent of their drinking from their loved ones
- Drinks instead of fulfilling duties or responsibilities
- Turns to alcohol when they face a new or unexpected hardship
- Repeats destructive patterns revolving around drinking
- Breaks promises to themselves and others regularly about how much they will drink
Honestly evaluating the way we use alcohol is an important task. When used improperly, alcohol can have a devastating effect on a person’s health, relationships, and overall well being. However, with support, it is possible for someone with alcohol use disorder to create new and healthier habits that support a more fulfilling lifestyle.
If you or someone you love are noticing some of the signs of alcohol use disorder mentioned above in your life, it might be time to consider what support you need to stop using alcohol. At Addiction Recovery Services we are excited to partner with you in your recovery journey. Call us at 978-228-5853 and we will be happy to discuss treatment options.
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